Close: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
April 18, 2025

1. Close (adjective): Near in distance or time.
2. Close (adjective): Intimate or affectionate in a relationship.
3. Close (adjective): Having little or no space between things.
4. Close (adjective): Secretive or reserved in nature.
5. Close (adverb): In a way that is near in distance or time.
6. Close (verb): To shut something so that it is no longer open.
7. Close (verb): To end or bring something to a conclusion.
8. Close (verb): To stop or block access to a place or path.
9. Close (verb): To complete or finalize an agreement or deal.

The word "close" is highly versatile, functioning as an adjective, adverb, and verb. It can describe proximity, relationships, or actions such as shutting or concluding something. Its rich variety of meanings makes it an essential term in everyday language.

"Close" Definition: What Does "Close" Mean?

The term "close" is a versatile word used to describe proximity, relationships, and actions. Below, we delve into its most common meanings and contexts.

Definition of "Close": Near in Distance or Time

As an adjective, "close" describes something located or occurring nearby, either in terms of physical space or temporal proximity.

Definition of "Close": Intimate or Affectionate

"Close" also refers to strong emotional bonds or intimate relationships between people.

Definition of "Close": Having Little Space

When used as an adjective, "close" describes objects that are positioned very near to each other, often with little or no space between them.

Definition of "Close": Secretive or Reserved

In certain contexts, "close" describes a person who is secretive, reserved, or not forthcoming.

Definition of "Close": To Shut

As a verb, "close" refers to the act of shutting something, such as a door or window, to prevent it from being open.

Definition of "Close": To End or Conclude

"Close" can also mean to bring something to an end, such as an event, meeting, or conversation.

Definition of "Close": To Block Access

As a verb, it means to restrict or stop access to a place or path.

Definition of "Close": To Finalize

In business or legal contexts, "close" refers to the completion or finalization of an agreement, deal, or contract.

Parts of Speech

The word "close" serves as an adjective, adverb, and verb. As an adjective, it describes proximity, intimacy, or a lack of space. As an adverb, it emphasizes nearness in time or space. As a verb, it denotes actions such as shutting, concluding, or finalizing.

How to Pronounce "Close"?

The pronunciation of "close" depends on its function as an adjective, adverb, or verb. When used as an adjective or adverb, it rhymes with "dose" (/kloʊs/). As a verb, it rhymes with "rose" (/kloʊz/). Pronounce the "cl" sound by pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth, followed by the "oh" vowel and ending with the "s" or "z" sound.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /kloʊs/ (adjective, adverb), /kloʊz/ (verb)

Synonyms of "Close": Other Ways to Say "Close"

Understanding synonyms of "close" helps enhance language precision. Here are some examples:

  • Adjective: Near
  • Adjective: Tight
  • Adjective: Intimate
  • Adjective: Confidential
  • Adverb: Nearby
  • Adverb: Adjacent
  • Verb: Shut
  • Verb: Conclude
  • Verb: Seal
  • Verb: Finalize

Antonyms of "Close": Other Ways to Say "Close"

Exploring antonyms helps us understand the opposite meanings of "close." Some examples include:

  • Adjective: Distant
  • Adjective: Open
  • Adjective: Detached
  • Adverb: Far
  • Adverb: Remotely
  • Verb: Open
  • Verb: Start
  • Verb: Unseal
  • Verb: Abort
  • Verb: Disconnect

Examples of "Close" in a Sentence

Here are examples that showcase the flexibility of "close" in different contexts:

  1. The school is very close to my house, just a five-minute walk.
  2. The siblings have a close relationship and share everything with each other.
  3. The books were stacked so close together that it was hard to pull one out.
  4. She was a close-mouthed person, rarely sharing her thoughts.
  5. The child stood close to the edge of the table, almost knocking over the vase.
  6. Please close the door to keep the room warm.
  7. The meeting will close after we discuss the final agenda item.
  8. They decided to close the park for renovations during the winter.
  9. The company will close the deal tomorrow after the final review.
  10. We were close to missing the train but made it just in time.

Frequency of Use

The word "close" is highly common in both spoken and written English due to its versatility and broad range of meanings. It appears in daily conversations, literature, and professional contexts.

Variants of "Close"

"Close" has several grammatical and contextual variants:

  1. Closure (noun): The act or process of closing or being closed.
  2. Closely (adverb): In a manner that is near or intimate.
  3. Closeness (noun): The state of being close.

Related Terms to "Close"

These related terms provide additional insights into the concept of "close":

  1. Nearby
  2. Adjacent
  3. Intimacy
  4. Confidential
  5. Seal
  6. Finalize
  7. Proximity
  8. Shut
  9. Closure
  10. End

Etymology: History and Origins of "Close"

The word "close" originates from the Latin term clausus, meaning "shut" or "enclosed." It was later adopted into Old French as clos and subsequently into Middle English. Initially used to describe shutting or enclosing, its meanings expanded over time to include proximity, intimacy, and finality.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Close"

"Close" has given rise to various derivatives and compounds:

  1. Closure: The act of closing or ending something.
  2. Enclose: To surround or shut in.
  3. Reclose: To close again.

Common Misspellings of "Close"

Misspellings of "close" often result from typographical errors:

  1. Clsoe
  2. Clos
  3. Cloes

10 Idioms Similar to "Close"

Idioms associated with "close" add creativity to language:

  1. Close at hand
  2. Close to the bone
  3. Close call
  4. Close quarters
  5. Close the book on
  6. Too close for comfort
  7. Close to home
  8. Close the door on
  9. Keep a close watch
  10. Close ranks

10 Common Questions About "Close"

1. What is the basic definition of "close"?

"Close" means near in distance, time, or relationship, or the act of shutting or concluding something.

2. How can "close" be used as a verb?

As a verb, "close" means to shut, end, or finalize something.

3. What is the adjective form of "close"?

The adjective form describes proximity, intimacy, or a lack of space.

4. What does "close the deal" mean?

It means to finalize an agreement, typically in business.

5. Is "close" used in idioms?

Yes, idioms like "close call" and "too close for comfort" are common.

6. What is a synonym for "close" in distance?

"Near" is a common synonym for "close" in this context.

7. Can "close" mean secretive?

Yes, "close" can describe someone who is reserved or secretive.

8. What is the adverb form of "close"?

As an adverb, it describes being near in distance or time.

9. Is "close" used in relationships?

Yes, "close" can describe intimate or affectionate relationships.

10. What is the opposite of "close"?

"Distant" or "open" are common antonyms for "close."

Conclusion

"Close" is a multifaceted word that encompasses proximity, intimacy, and actions like shutting or finalizing. Its diverse meanings make it a vital term in communication. Exploring its usage and nuances enriches language skills and fosters clarity.

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